In Rainbows Review: Warm, Intricate and Pay-What-You-Want
9.5/10 — Radiohead - In Rainbows (2007)
Pros
- 'Weird Fishes/Arpeggi' and 'Reckoner'
- Warm, detailed production
- Pay-what-you-want release
Cons
- Short
- A couple of lighter songs
In Rainbows was released digitally on a pay-what-you-want basis in 2007, a landmark moment for music distribution. It was produced by Nigel Godrich.
What works
‘Nude’, ‘Reckoner’ and ‘Weird Fishes/Arpeggi’ are beautiful, ‘Jigsaw Falling into Place’ is propulsive, and ‘Videotape’ is devastating. The production is warm and detailed, and Thom Yorke’s voice is more inviting here.
Where it falters
The album is only ten tracks and 42 minutes, and a few songs are slighter than the best.
Verdict
A gorgeous, rich and inviting record.
